The EEA (European Economic Area) Agreement Protocol 31 is a key component of the relationship between the EU and the EEA countries. This protocol governs the cooperation between the EU and the EEA countries in the area of research and development.
The agreement was signed in 2002 and came into force in 2004. The main objective of the protocol is to promote scientific and technological cooperation between the EU and the EEA countries, in order to strengthen their competitiveness and to promote economic growth.
One of the key provisions of the protocol is the establishment of the European Research Area (ERA). The ERA aims to create a single market for research and development activities across the EU and the EEA countries. This is intended to promote the exchange of knowledge and expertise, as well as to facilitate the transfer of technology and innovation.
To achieve this goal, the ERA focuses on a number of key areas, including the promotion of open access to scientific publications and data, the establishment of common research infrastructures, and the coordination of research funding and programs.
In addition to the ERA, the protocol also includes provisions for the establishment of joint research projects, the sharing of research facilities and equipment, and the exchange of researchers and students. These provisions are intended to promote collaboration between the EU and the EEA countries in specific areas of research and technological development.
Overall, the EEA Agreement Protocol 31 is an important framework for cooperation between the EU and the EEA countries in the area of research and development. By promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing, this protocol helps to support the competitiveness and growth of the European economy.